Weather Heroes
Weather Heroes takes you on an insightful journey into the essential realm of disaster preparedness and response. We introduce you to key weather experts from diverse backgrounds and industries, shedding light on their vital roles before and after extreme weather events.
The financial, environmental, and human costs of weather disasters are staggering. In 2023 alone, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reported 28 weather disasters, causing at least $92.9 billion in damage. This record-breaking year surpassed the previous high of 22 events in 2020. Since 1980, the U.S. has endured 376 major weather events, accumulating over $2.5 trillion in damages.
With the total damage estimate from 2024, including the L.A. Wildfire and the third costliest hurricane season (featuring Hurricane Helene), the overall cost will undoubtedly rise. Moreover, countless smaller-scale disasters also leave profound impacts on people's lives and properties.
Each weather event unfolds its own narrative, uniquely affecting individuals and communities. Weather Heroes connects you with those who rebuild lives—sharing stories of resilience and unwavering dedication.
Weather Heroes
The Katrina Chronicles: Battle for the Mississippi Coast - Brigadier General Spraggins
Brigadier General Benjamin J. “Joe” Spraggins – Professional Profile
In this episode of the Weather Heroes series, The Katrina Chronicles, we meet the man who oversaw the Harrison County, MS response and recovery efforts following Katrina’s devastating impact.
Brigadier General Benjamin J. “Joe” Spraggins (Ret.) is a distinguished military and public service leader with over 34 years in the U.S. Air Force. He retired in 2006 as a Brigadier General. He commanded the Combat Readiness Training Center Gulfport, the 186th Air Refueling Wing in Meridian, MS, and served as Chief of Staff of the Tennessee Air National Guard. An aviator with more than 3,400 flight hours, his final assignment was Battle Commander for the Continental United States Region under NORAD, overseeing U.S. air sovereignty.
Following his military career, Spraggins became the Harrison County, MS Emergency Management Director, coordinating recovery efforts after Hurricane Katrina, the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill (2010), the Haiti earthquake (2010), and the Nashville flood (2010).
While recounting his Katrina experiences, the General describes the many challenges to recovery, shares some very moving stories, and provides insights into the long-term recovery efforts along the MS coast and what can be done to prepare for a worst-case scenario.
In 2013, he joined the Mississippi Department of Marine Resources (MDMR) and currently serves as the Executive Director. He leads programs in coastal restoration, resiliency, and marine fisheries.
General Spraggins also serves on multiple regional and national boards, including the Gulf of Mexico Fisheries Management Council, Gulf States Marine Fisheries Commission, and Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport Authority.
Known for his dedication to coastal Mississippi, he is a respected leader in disaster recovery, marine resource management, and community service
“Have a very good plan, practice it regularly, and be ready for what can happen; be prepared for war with nature. Never get complacent”